Watch Our 14 Day Switzerland & Italy Tour Video Overview
Day 1: Lake Lucerne Boat Tour
A boat tour around Lake Lucerne is a must-do experience for any visitor to this picturesque region of Switzerland. Starting in the charming town of Lucerne, the tour takes you on a leisurely journey around the lake, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and picturesque villages along the shore. The round trip to Beckenried is a particularly popular option, as it takes you through the heart of the lake and allows you to see some of the most beautiful and historic sights along the way.
As you set out on your tour, you’ll pass by the iconic Chapel Bridge, a wooden footbridge that spans the Reuss River and is one of the most photographed landmarks in Switzerland. You’ll also see the Water Tower, a medieval structure that once served as a prison and torture chamber.
As you continue on your journey, you’ll pass by the village of Weggis, which is known for its beautiful gardens and stunning views of the Rigi mountain. You’ll also see the village of Vitznau, which is home to the oldest rack railway in Switzerland, and the village of Beckenried, which is a popular destination for hiking and skiing.
Throughout the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to take in the stunning scenery and learn about the history and culture of the region from your knowledgeable guide. Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Switzerland or a seasoned traveler, a boat tour around Lake Lucerne is an unforgettable experience that you won’t want to miss.
Guided Tour of Lucerne
Your guided tour of the city of Lucerne provides the opportunity to enjoy a stunning mountainous panorama and a variety of attractions to explore. Visitors can indulge in the city’s shopping offerings and admire the picturesque lakeside setting.
The Chapel Bridge, a covered medieval bridge adorned with gable paintings, is the centerpiece of Lucerne’s townscape and is considered one of the oldest covered wooden bridges in Europe. Another iconic landmark of the city is the Museggmauer, a well-preserved wall with the exception of one tower, that serves as a reminder of the town’s history and fortification.
The picturesque town squares of Lucerne are lined with historic houses decorated with frescoes, such as the car-free old town’s ‘Weinmarkt’ square. The city is known for its many squares and churches, including the 17th-century Jesuit church, considered to be Switzerland’s first Baroque sacral building, and the twin towers of the Hofkirche, an iconic part of the townscape. One of the most famous monuments in Switzerland is the figure of a dying lion, carved in memory of the Swiss guards who died during an attack on the Tuileries in 1792. Additionally, Lucerne is home to one of the world’s few remaining circular paintings, the 112-meter-long Bourbaki panorama.
In Lucerne, tradition and modernity coexist seamlessly. The city is known for its innovative design and architectural highlights, such as the futuristic Culture and Convention Centre (KKL) designed by renowned French architect Jean Nouvel. The KKL is a prominent landmark of the city and a hub for diverse cultural events throughout the year, cementing Lucerne’s reputation as a festival city.
Day 2: Mount Pilatus
The mountain of Pilatus, located in Lucerne, is steeped in legends and renowned for its natural beauty. Known as the maker of weather, Dragon’s Lair, home to giants, and the grave of rulers, Pilatus is one of the most iconic places in Central Switzerland.
According to one legend, a dragon rock fell from the sky in the year 1420. Another story claims that the Roman governor Pontius Pilatus was buried in the lake at the base of the mountain. Additionally, there is a legend of a petrified man standing guard in front of a cave. The total journey time is approximately 5 hours, so we will stop in the town of Como en route to enjoy an Italian-style lunch.
Private Water Taxi From Tronchetto (Car Drop-Off Point) To Hotel In Venice
The water taxi takes 30 minutes to arrive in Venice, and your driver will be waiting for you to take you to your accommodation.
Day 3: Walking Tour of Venice
Join a guided walk through Venice’s most beautiful sights:
- Explore Venice’s typical canal pathways
- See the famous Rialto Bridge
- Visit the historic Fondaco dei Tedeschi (formerly a German trade house)
- Discover Marco Polo’s neighborhood
- See St. Mark’s “Great School”
- Visit St. John & Paul’s Cathedral (also known as the Doge’s Pantheon)
- Take in the sights at Campo S. Maria Formosa
Gondola Ride
What tour of Venice would be complete without gliding through the canals on an iconic Gondola with your Gondolier serenading you as you feast your eyes on some of the city’s most famous sights?
Day 4: La Serenissima: St.Mark’s Basilica & Doge’s Palace
The Piazza San Marco, also known as the “drawing room of Europe” according to Napoleon, is famous for its Basilica San Marco, which is known for its Italian-Byzantine architecture.
Your tour guide will take you inside this Gothic masterpiece, the St. Mark’s Basilica, with a skip-the-line entrance. The basilica was originally built as the private chapel of the Doge and was intended to hold the relics of St. Mark the Evangelist.
The last destination on this iconic tour is the Doge’s Palace, located to the right of St. Mark’s Basilica. The palace stands out for its white and pink herringbone brick exterior and its highly ornate Gothic white stone arches, which give it a distinct Venetian flair. The palace was the center of political power and was the residence of the Doge until the Napoleonic invasion of 1797.
Day 5: Fast Train From Venice To Florence
The journey in a first-class carriage takes approximately 2 hrs and 15 minutes.
Strolling Florence’s Heart: Private Walking Tour
During the course of the tour, you will visit the following sites with your private guide:
- Ponte Vecchio
- Arno River
- Duomo
- Baptistry doors
- Piazza della Signoria
- Palazzo Vecchio
- Piazza Repubblica
- Orsanmichele Church
The walking tour starts at one of the most iconic and significant places in Florence, the Ponte Vecchio, also known as the “old bridge” across the renowned Arno River. The bridge has a history that dates back to 996, and its current form has been in place since 1345. You will have the chance to explore the unique shops and jewelers that are located along the historic structure.
Your next destination is the exterior of the magnificent 13th-century Gothic Duomo Cathedral, featuring the renowned dome by Brunelleschi, as well as the impressive Baptistry doors, known as the “Gates of Paradise” in Florence.
You will proceed to explore some of the city’s most significant squares, such as Piazza Della Signoria, Palazzo Vecchio, and Piazza Repubblica. You will trace the history of these squares, from Ancient Rome to its use as the Jewish Ghetto and its current state in the modern day.
As part of the tour, you will also visit the Orsanmichele Church, where you can touch the nose of the Porcellino pig statue for good luck!
Day 6: Florence Museums Tour: Uffizi & Accademia
This tour will take you through two of Florence’s most renowned museums, the Galleria dell’Accademia and the Galleria Uffizi.
You begin at the Uffizi Gallery, one of the world’s oldest museums, established in 1591.
Alongside your private guide, admire a variety of renowned works by some of the most prominent Renaissance artists such as Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Giotto. The legacy of this brilliant era can be appreciated by exploring the works of Masters like Titian and Michelangelo, which demonstrate how Renaissance techniques revolutionized the art world forever.
Some of the priceless works on display are:
- Sandro Botticelli: Primavera, The Birth of Venus
- Michelangelo: The Holy Family (Doni Tondo)
- Leonardo da Vinci: The Annunciation, Adoration of the Magi
- Raphael: Madonna of the Goldfinch, Portrait of Leo X
- Titian: Flora, Venus of Urbino
- Caravaggio: Bacchus, Sacrifice of Isaac, Medusa
- Rembrandt: Self-portrait as a Young Man
Accademia Private Tour
After the Uffizi Gallery, you will proceed to the Accademia, where you will see Michelangelo’s iconic sculpture “David” and his unfinished “Slaves” works.
The Statue of David, a 5.17-meter marble masterpiece of Renaissance sculpture, was originally situated outside the Palazzo Vecchio but was later moved to the Accademia Gallery in 1873. Seeing the statue with a private guide is the best way to fully appreciate its beauty and learn about Michelangelo’s life, the statue’s meaning, and its historical significance.
In addition to viewing Michelangelo’s works, you can also spend some time with your guide exploring the other art collections at the Accademia Gallery in Florence, featuring artists such as Paolo Uccello, Sandro Botticelli, Andrea del Sarto, and Giambologna.
Day 7: Cinque Terre Tour From Florence via Pisa
With your private driver and guide, you will depart from Florence to explore the picturesque coastal towns of Liguria, known as the Cinque Terre. One of the villages, Monterosso al Mare, is the largest and oldest of the five towns, dating back to 1056. The village is divided into two parts: the historic old town and the more tourist-oriented Fegina, and it features notable monuments.
Vernazza, often considered the most charming of the Cinque Terre villages, was first documented in 1080. The village was once economically and socially advanced, as seen in its town planning and architectural elements such as lodges, churches, casetorri, and arcades. The village is dominated by the remains of the “castrum,” a series of 11th-century Medieval forts, including a cylindrical castle and tower.
Corniglia is a unique village among the Cinque Terre as it is not situated on the coast. It sits atop a rocky promontory, and its architecture, characterized by low and wide houses, is more reminiscent of inland villages rather than coastal towns. This is a testament to the fact that the village’s traditional livelihood has always been focused on the land rather than the sea.
Manarola, a hamlet of Riomaggiore, is a town planning gem, with a rich abundance of tower houses in the Genovese style. The village was founded in the 12th century, and its name is believed to have originated from an ancient “magna roea,” or large mill wheel that was once located in the village.
Riomaggiore has several notable monuments, including the San Giovanni Battista church, built in 1340 with a central nave that is double the width of the side ones, and the Oratorio di Santa Maria Assunta, which contains a 15th-century Trittico and a 1300s wooden statue of the Madonna. Additionally, the prominent Castello castle towers over the historic center.
After visiting these sites, you will return to Florence in the evening.
Day 8: Fast Train From Florence To Rome & Delivery To Hotel
Journey time approx 1.5 hours.
Introduction To Rome Walking Tour
This tour offers a blend of ancient history and contemporary culture as you explore the Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, the exterior of the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, and many other lesser-known gems.
Your expert guide will lead you through one of the world’s most magnificent cities, showcasing its splendor. Designed as an introduction to the Eternal City, this guided walking tour provides a relaxed stroll through the heart of Rome, where you will encounter numerous historical monuments.
As you navigate through the city’s historic streets and squares, your expert private guide will lead you on a journey of political, historical, and artistic discovery, providing not only historical background but also intriguing stories, customs, and local legends that make these sights so captivating.
Guided Tour of Castel Sant’Angelo
The Mausoleum of Hadrian, commonly known as Castel Sant’Angelo, is a cylindrical building in Parco Adriano. It was originally commissioned by the Roman Emperor Hadrian as a tomb for himself and his family. Later, it was used by the Popes as a fortress and castle, and it is now a museum. The building was once the tallest structure in Rome.
Day 9: Skip The Line Vatican Tour: Museums, Sistine Chapel, & St Peter’s
A Skip the Line Vatican Tour is a great way to experience the Vatican’s world-renowned museums, the Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica without waiting in long lines.
The Vatican Museums are home to an impressive collection of art and artifacts from ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, as well as an extensive collection of Renaissance masterpieces.
The Sistine Chapel, with its iconic ceiling painted by Michelangelo, is a must-see for art lovers and history buffs alike. The tour also includes a visit to St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the most important religious sites in the world and the largest church in the world.
The tour guide will provide interesting historical facts, stories, and information about the art and architecture of the sites. You will also have the opportunity to view some of the most famous works of art in the world.
Climbing St Peter’s Dome
Ascend the dome, either by taking the elevator or climbing the stairs. Once at the top, visitors would be able to enjoy panoramic views of Rome and the surrounding area.
Day 10: Skip The Line Colosseum, Roman Forum, & Palatine Hill
A tour of the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill would take you through some of the most iconic and historically significant sites in ancient Rome.
The iconic Colosseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, is perhaps the most famous site in the whole country. It is considered one of the greatest engineering feats of the Roman Empire and was used for gladiatorial contests, mock sea battles, animal hunts, and other public spectacles. Skip-the-line tickets here are truly essential to ensure that your time is spent experiencing the site rather than queuing outside.
The next location is the Roman Forum, a rectangular forum surrounded by the ruins of several important ancient government buildings at the center of the city of Rome. It was for centuries the center of Roman public life: the site of triumphal processions and elections; the venue for public speeches, criminal trials, and gladiatorial matches; and the nucleus of commercial affairs. Walking amongst the ruins with your private guide enables them to bring the historic bustling streets to life for you.
The Palatine Hill is one of the seven hills of Rome and is where, according to Roman tradition, the city was founded in 753 BCE. The hill is a rich archaeological site, with the remains of several monumental buildings, including the palace of the Roman emperors.
Day 11: Trip to Ancient Pompeii
Begin your day excursion to Pompeii with our private driver collecting you from your Rome accommodation and setting off for Pompeii, located just over 2 hours away.
A tour of Pompeii is a journey back in time to an ancient Roman city that was buried in ash and pumice by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79.
Along with your guide, visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins of houses, public buildings, and temples, as well as the remains of streets and sidewalks, as you understand how life used to be in this formerly bustling metropolis before time stopped forever.
Some of the highlights of a tour include the Forum, the main public square; the House of the Faun, one of the grandest homes in Pompeii; and the Villa of the Mysteries, a luxurious residence with beautiful frescoes.
Along the way, visitors can also see casts of the victims of the eruption, which were created by filling the spaces left by their bodies with plaster.
Your chauffeur will take you to your accommodation in Pompeii for the evening.
Day 12: Blue Waters: Capri Private Boat Tour
Join us for a leisurely sailing adventure on our Capri Private Boat Tour.
Departing from Sorrento port, you’ll be guided by a local sailor as you explore the beautiful island of Capri. Take a dip in the clear waters and discover hidden grottos, making stops at the famous Blue, White, and Green Grottos.
Enjoy a refreshing glass of homemade limoncello, crafted by the boatman’s family, as you end your tour.
Day 13: Best of the Amalfi Coast Tour
The private Amalfi Coast Tour takes you on a journey along one of the most picturesque coastlines in the world, the 43-mile stretch of coastline along the peninsula beneath the Bay of Naples.
The tour starts at Sorrento, one of the largest towns on the Amalfi Coast, where you will have the opportunity to explore the charming streets of the city and discover the works of local artisans, including ceramics, wood inlaying, and painting.
Next, you will travel to the picturesque cliffside village of Positano, where you can admire the terracotta houses, shop at local boutiques, and visit the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, known for its Byzantine “Black Madonna” icon.
You will then be transported to the beautiful village of Amalfi. Surrounded by dramatic cliffs and breathtaking coastal scenery, and with influences of the Byzantine Empire still present in its architecture. Be sure to make a stop at the Museum of Handmade Paper, where you can learn about Amalfi’s unique history as one of the first centers for paper-making in Europe. You will also have the opportunity to create your own handmade paper using traditional methods in one of the original paper mills.
Your final stop for the day will be in Ravello, a cliff-top town, where you will visit the 12th-century cathedral, take in the panoramic views from Villa Rufolo, and explore the luxurious gardens of Villa Cimbrone, which include rare botanical species, statues, fountains, and artificial grottos, as well as the famous “Infinity Terrace.”
Day 14: Transfer To the Airport
Your chauffeur will unpack your luggage and wish you a fond farewell as our 2-week tour across Switzerland and Italy draws to a close.
